New details surrounding the heartbreaking death of The Cosby Show star Malcolm-Jamal Warner reveal that no lifeguard was on duty when the tragedy occurred.
According to a Facebook post by Costa Rica’s volunteer lifeguard group, Caribbean Guard, the actor was caught in a powerful rip current and dragged underwater. Although other beachgoers rushed to help and attempted to rescue him, there was no official lifeguard present at the time.
The group noted that bystanders tried performing CPR, but sadly, their efforts weren’t enough to save him.
The Caribbean Guard revealed that the beach where Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned — Playa Grande — is known for being treacherous, with signs clearly posted warning visitors of the dangers. The Cosby Show star lost his life there on Sunday, July 20, while vacationing in Costa Rica.
While the Guard has previously patrolled Playa Grande, they noted they weren’t stationed there that day, having recently shifted resources to cover another beach requiring more urgent attention.
Their message closed with a heartfelt appeal: “We do everything within our power. We’ve saved numerous lives in recent years, and if Caribbean Guard didn’t exist, drownings would count by the dozens. We do our part to minimize risks but if we don’t have government help, clear public policies and strong support from local entrepreneurs, this will keep happening.”
News of Warner’s tragic passing spread swiftly, prompting an outpouring of love and tributes from across Hollywood. Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, and Tracee Ellis Ross were among those honoring his memory.
A representative for Bill Cosby told Complex, “He’s devastated and it’s a sad day.”
Warner rose to fame in the 1980s as Theodore Huxtable, the only son of Cliff Huxtable on The Cosby Show. His portrayal earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
